Speaking from experience

We asked homebuilders what advice they would give someone considering building for the first time based on their experience.

CASS AND ASH, Tapping

My husband and I went and viewed some display homes until we found the Ross North Homes design we wanted to build. We chose a nice open-plan house with a big kitchen and family area where everyone could enjoy each other’s company in the same space. We added in an extra cupboard in the laundry as there wasn’t one and removed a second bath from the master ensuite that we would never use. We replaced the bath with another vanity and cupboards which has worked out really well. I am happy with the extra cupboard space and the bathroom looks more spacious now as well. We did select a lot of the extras outside the standard range which was more costly but we are happy with the selections we made.

TANJA, Ellenbrook

So far I have had the pleasure of building two homes. However, the difference in the experience between creating the first to the second was like chalk and cheese.

1. Your building consultant – Building a home is such a personal experience, you need to feel comfortable with this person. If you don’t click with this person or feel they do not understand what you want in your home find another one.

2. Finance – Find out what is affordable for you in regards to repayments and stick to it. Building a home is an exciting experience and it is very easy to get carried away with all the new pretty, shiny things.

3. Designing – If you have found yourself a good building consultant, they will be able to help you create what you want. Drive around and look at display homes, take photos and create a mood/colour boards to find your style. If you are unsure on a colour scheme throughout, copy off a display home you love. Contact the building company of the display you love and request them to email you the list specifications in that house and the materials/colours used.

4. Communication – No matter how nice everyone is to you at the building company, have everything put in writing. At the end of the day, it is still business.

5. Read everything – I know everyone says “read the small print”, but really read it – three times – and ask questions if you are unsure. Just because you told your consultant you want A, B and C, does not mean it is automatically included in the specifications/plans . You are not the only person building with your consultant and people make mistakes. Read and check, this is your responsibility not theirs.

MAREE, Wellard

I would shop around for the best deals. Don’t be overly trusting to one company as what they offer could be a hidden cost in your home loan. Make sure your loan is manageable before you sign anything so you would be comfortable to pay and live as well.